Zidane set to replace Deschamps as France coach after World Cup semi-final loss to Spain
Former Real Madrid legend Zinedine Zidane is set to replace Didier Deschamps as France national team head coach immediately after Les Bleus' 2-0 semi-final loss to Spain in the 2026 World Cup on Tuesday night. Deschamps had already confirmed he would step down after the tournament, with his final match being the third-place playoff against England or Argentina this weekend.
The news comes via trusted transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, who confirmed on X: "OFFICIAL: Didier Deschamps’ cycle as France head coach comes to an end. It’s over. Last game for 3rd/4th place then his goodbye… and the start of Zinedine Zidane era." This ends Deschamps' 12-year tenure that included the 2018 World Cup win and 2022 final appearance.
For Nigerian football fans who follow European football or admired Zidane's playing career, this leadership change could significantly impact France's future tournaments. Les Bleus remain a formidable force despite this loss, and Zidane's return to management after his Real Madrid stints generates major interest. The third-place playoff this weekend will be Deschamps' farewell match before Zidane takes full charge.
Will you be watching Deschamps' final game this weekend to send him off, or are you already looking forward to seeing how Zidane shapes the next era of French football?